Data Sleuth® Using Data in Forensic Accounting Engagements and Fraud Investigations
Data Sleuth® presents a practical, hands-on approach to forensic accounting engagements and fraud investigations. The book offers processes, best practices, step-by-step explanations, and overarching strategies to help financial investigators and forensic accountants deliver results for their clients and grow their practices.
In the book author, Leah Wietholter, explains her proprietary Data Sleuth® Process, why it’s necessary, and how it fits into typical forensic accounting engagements and fraud investigations. She also lays out a complete framework for its implementation.
Data Sleuth® explores the importance of proving the twin purposes of using data to uncover personal benefit and intent to prove fraud and examines the concept of risk-based analysis in financial investigations. It explains a variety of analysis methods, as well as the centrality of best evidence in the investigation process.
Readers will discover how to analyze financial data in the Data Sleuth® Process using Excel to systematize common steps in the investigative process resulting in consistent, reliable work products. They’ll also learn the ethical importance of retaining an independent and evidence-based point of view, especially when testifying as an expert witness.
Including downloadable supplemental resources, like a Fraud Detection Worksheet and other Data Sleuth® Process organizational templates, Data Sleuth® offers techniques for using the best available data sources for working through problem-solving processes that address the challenges of imperfect information.
An indispensable resource for forensic accountants and fraud investigators, Data Sleuth® answers foundational questions and provides critical frameworks for effective financial investigations in real-world situations where information is often incomplete.